After undergoing your orthodontic treatment at Braceland Orthodontists, you become the proud owner of a straighter, more confident smile. However, just because you’ve had your braces taken off, or finished another form of treatment like Invisalign, doesn’t mean the work is done. In order to preserve your new, beautiful smile it is necessary to move on to the retention phase of orthodontic treatment.
You & Your Retainer
Maintaining the results you achieved during orthodontic treatment is dependent on your use of retainers, as prescribed by Braceland Orthodontists. Your retainers will be customized to fit your unique smile and, because your smile is unique, instructions on how to wear them will be provided by your orthodontist.
This is your retention phase of treatment, and it will last for approximately 12 months. However, ideally we would like you to continue wearing your retainers indefinitely. Your final orthodontic result depends on this phase, so follow through with the hard work you've put in so far by wearing your retainers as advised. You will have three kinds of retainers to choose from:
Essix Retainer
The Essix retainer is a clear, removable retainer that fits over the entire arch of your teeth. Some benefits include:
- Virtually Invisible
- And easy to wear
Hawley Retainers
The Hawley retainer is one of the most common types of retainers. It is removable and made of a combination of metal wires and sturdy acrylic, which is designed to keep your teeth in place. This retainer is specially made from impressions of your teeth, so it fits snugly and comfortably against the roof of your mouth while the wire and acrylic framing your teeth keep them in perfect position.
Fixed Retainers
Fixed retainers, or bonded lingual retainers, are cemented directly to the inside surface of your upper or lower front teeth. This is one of the best ways to prevent your lower teeth from shifting, as the retainers are permanently attached. Just like with removable retainers, it is important to keep fixed retainers clean. Therefore, when brushing, your orthodontist recommends carefully brushing and flossing to clean the inside of your lower teeth as well as the wire. If your retainer breaks at any time during the retention phase, please do not adjust it yourself. Call our North Scarborough office immediately to schedule a priority appointment.
Preserve Your Smile Today!
Through orthodontic treatment, you and your orthodontist work hard to get you a beautiful, straight smile. Safeguard that hard work and preserve your new smile by wearing your retainers